People displaced from the Boeung Kak neighborhood of Phnom Penh more than a decade ago are still seeking redress from the World Bank, which they claim failed to implement a settlement in the case.
Im Sreytouch, a Boeung Kak activist, said the evictees hold the Bank responsible for their current plight.
”They did not keep track of the budget; that's why the government can claim the money and brutally cast us out and we lost our houses and land. Some got into debt, fell sick and died because they cannot afford the treatment. So, the World Bank has to be responsible for us,” she said.
She added that a Bank official had agreed to hold discussions with the claimants on Wednesday.
Bou Saroeun, World Bank spokesman in Cambodia, declined to comment.
The 169 former Boeung Kak residents were among some 3,000 families who were forced to accept compensation and relocate to the Borey Sante Pheap 2 area on the outskirts of Phnom Penh to make way for a large development project linked to a ruling party senator.
The protesters said they have faced numerous difficulties since being forced to relocate.
Sim Sam Oeun, 66, said she was now homeless.
“I don't dare to rent a house because if I do, I won't have money to pay for electricity fees, clothes, shampoo, and food. Everyone gives me food, but I say no. I cannot accept it. I'm waiting to see if they solve my problem, then I will find a cottage to live in,” she said.
